MPOC committed to advancing palm oil industry, supporting smallholders
The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) is firmly committed to advancing the palm oil industry and supporting smallholders.
This dedication is demonstrated through its workshop series entitled “Pengenalan Standard MSPO dan Aspek Sosial Dalam Perniagaan” which was launched by Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani recently.
MPOC said in a statement the workshop aimed to provide accurate and up-to-date information to smallholders on important labour issues.
Specifically, it delved into the issues of forced and child labour which must be eradicated to ensure a fair and sustainable palm oil industry.
Furthermore, the session aimed to elucidate the social dimensions embedded in the revised 2022 Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) standard as well as the Sarawak Government’s legislation on labour remuneration, forced labour and child labour.
The workshop highlighted the steps being taken by the government, palm oil players and human rights organisations to address labour issues.
Participants also gained a holistic view of steps that could be taken to ensure the sustainability of the palm oil industry while safeguarding workers’ welfare.
Additionally, the workshop provided an opportunity for smallholders in Bintulu to share information, experiences and challenges, such employment of foreign workers and wages.
“Labour issues in the palm oil industry have drawn the attention of the Malaysian government, major palm oil importers such as the United States and the European Union, as well as international human rights organisations.
“Aligning with the government’s goal of eradicating forced and child labour in the palm oil industry by 2030, the MPOC is committed to promoting positive labour practices among smallholders,” it said.
At the event, Johari launched a publication titled “Human Rights and Forced Labour in the Palm Oil Industry” by MPOC, in collaboration with the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia and International Labour Organisation.
This book is part of a broader initiative to equip stakeholders with the knowledge to recognise signs of forced labour, understand its consequences and implement measures to resolve these critical issues.